Managing the Network

Training and networking activities for LAGs

The development and delivery of training and capacity building for new LAGs was a high priority for many national rural networks (NRNs) in 2007-2013 and is anticipated as an important activity in 2014-2020 in accordance with the task of “training and networking for local action groups” (Article 54(3) of the Rural Development Regulation (RDR) 1305/2013) [PDF ].

The content and delivery of training actions for LAGs tend to be very diverse since they are tailored a) to national / regional context, and b) to the specific needs of the LAGs. For example, in 2007-2013:

• The Maltese NRN co-ordinated a comprehensive programme of training [PDF ] for all LAG Managers and Board Members that focused on their roles and responsibilities; the management and implementation of the Local Development Strategy; the application process for project calls, including the establishment of selection criteria and the evaluation of projects, and; the principles and practice of monitoring and evaluation for LAGs. Since LEADER was a completely new concept for the Maltese Islands at this time, all training was provided by an external consultant and was first delivered to the Network Support Unit (NSU) as “training of the trainers”. After the training was complete the consultant continued to follow-up with on-going support to the individual LAGs in the implementation of their respective strategies.
• The Latvian NRN delivered many “stand-alone” training activities to LAG members / potential beneficiaries on specific themes, which aimed to help them better understand the rural development programme (RDP) and how to make use of the available opportunities. For example, in 2011 the Latvian Ministry of Agriculture changed the RDP and made direct funding available through the LAGs for small-scale, homemade food production. In order to inform LAG Managers and Board Members about these changes (plus the relevant food standards legislation), the NSU organised a one day training event [PDF ] delivered by an expert on homemade food production, plus a representative of the national Food and Veterinary Service (FVS).
• The Hungarian NRN responded to the needs of LAGs and organised six thematic trainings [PDF ] to strengthen the communication skills of LAG members and thereby improve delivery of the LEADER approach at a local level. The content of each 2-day training event included communication techniques and channels; involving the audience; practicing presentations, and; using the internet, with a particular focus social media. All training was delivered by professional trainers using interactive lectures and workshops.

More examples of training and capacity building activities undertaken for LAGs in 2007-2013 can be found here.